Indian Army conducts test of indigenous heavy artillery gun - Dhanush

Among Important National Current Affairs, The Indian Army has successfully conducted ‘user-validation’ trials of indigenous Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System i.e. ATAGS Dhanush in the Himalayas.

However, it clears the way for the induction in the Army.

Before this, proof firing tests of Dhanush’s armament systems were carried out during technical trials in June and September, 2016 and some initial integrated firing tests were successfully carried out in the month of December, 2016.

Satellites and Missions launched by whom in 2016 – ISRO

In the year 2016, ISRO i.e. The Indian Space Research Organisation gave us numerous proud moments by showcasing its space prowess.

However, we all should must say thanks to ISRO and its scientists who work day and night to make India a self-reliant country in space science.

Among Important National Current Affairs, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has launched Pravasi Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PKVY), which is a skill development program targeted at Indian youth seeking overseas employment to make India the Skill Capital of the World.

However, it was launched after inauguration of 14th Pravasi Bhartiya Divas convention at India’s IT hub Bengaluru, Karnataka.

Whereas, Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa was the Chief Guest of the event.

SC wants what in EVMs for fair elections – VVPAT

Among Important National Current Affairs, The Supreme Court has finally reiterated the necessity to implement the Vote Verifier Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) in electronic voting machines (EVMs) to ensure 100% transparency in elections.

However, this is the second time the Supreme Court has directed Election Commission (EC) for the implementation of VVPAT in EVMs.

In the year 2013, SC had directed the EC to introduce VVPAT in a phased manner for 2014 general elections. SC had also observed that VVPAT will ensure free and fair polls and help in sorting out disputes.

Though, in response the EC had informed the apex court that the VVPAT can be introduced in a phased manner.

New Ginger species with medicinal properties discovered in - Andamans

Among Important National Current Affairs, Scientists from Botanical Survey of India (BSI) have discovered a new species of Zingiber which is commonly referred as ginger from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

However, the new species has been named as Zingiber pseudosquarrosum and belongs to genus Zingiber.

Also, it is used for its medicinal values by the local Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) of the Andamans.